Getting a new rack and pinion today

[JHayesLS1]

My new rack and pinion is getting put on as we speak and I hope it tightens up the steering and such. I have a horrid squeel too in the morning and I assume it from the power steering fluid getting on the belts. I hope anyways. What makes the rack and pinions go bad? My 02 WS6 never had this problem and I'm convinced its because all the roads around us right now are bumpy as hell and it finally took its toll on the original.

[blue02Z]

what exactly was the issue with it? rack and pinions get slack internally sometimes but it is usually the inner tie rods

[cammed goat]

Inner/outer tie-rods wear out as well as the seals under the bellows. Once the seals go...it's only a matter of time before the rack binds and the pump goes south from the leaks over time. I know some folks flush the power steering fluid out for ATF when they replace the racks, but I haven't heard any negatives with using ATF instead of tranny fluid.

[blue02Z]

yeah power steering fluid and atf are both designed to be used in hydaulic systems, that why amsol universal atf is specified as ps fluid. when i am at work and have a contaminated ps fluid complaint i will use dex 6 to flush it

[bberretta]

Do you have a sawzall? If not, get one- you'll need it with a 9" blade to cut the driver's side bolt off.